Success is defined as “The accomplishment of an aim or purpose.” New Jersey Give a Kid a Dream Champions of Life celebrates the successes of each member of our organization and takes extreme pride in helping everyone realize their potential and become Champions of Life.
Our youth come from various backgrounds and are typically, in their own and other’s eyes, destined for a life of mediocrity at best. CHAMPIONS OF LIFE take pride in celebrating our youth who continue to grow and go on to further their academic and professional lives post-high school graduation. We celebrate the small victories and the many firsts they experience with the CHAMPIONS OF LIFE program’s support and encourage them to stay focused and tackle all obstacles impeding the path to their goals. No obstacle is too great with the right support system, focus and never say quit attitude. Every obstacle is a learning experience.
CHAMPIONS OF LIFE focuses on helping create the most well-rounded individual possible. It is devoted to empowering its youth through mind and body. Our members learn the importance of a healthy lifestyle, which leads to shedding extra weight and learning to cope with the emotional and physical challenges they may face in their personal lives.
It is also very important that we celebrate those who support CHAMPIONS OF LIFE, as they believe in the program’s positive impact. Some supporters were once members of the program and, after experiencing its impact on their lives, returned to help, support, and mentor others.
Above all we rejoice in the youth we serve who continue to defy the odds and strengthen the community!
National studies have shown that in many urban communities, 30% to 40% of the population fail to meet the criteria for obtaining their high school diplomas. This is a community failure, not an individual failure. We believe we are only as strong as our foundation, and our youth are our foundation. 100% of our youth obtained their high school diplomas and continue building their positive legacy.
Recent review of national statistics has shown that CHAMPIONS OF LIFE absenteeism or truancy dropped below the 10% average. Additionally, the GPA (Grade Point Average) of CHAMPIONS OF LIFE youth was above the national average, a significant improvement from before the program began. Before beginning operations, the GPA was below the national average, which was and always will be unacceptable to the CHAMPIONS OF LIFE family.
Founder Jackie Atkins envisions using her skills and life experiences to build an organization of people with the same values, varying skills, and life experiences who embrace the goal of giving everyone a fighter’s chance and making them Champions of Life.
In addition, CHAMPIONS OF LIFE has received awards from numerous social service industries, including the Monmouth County Department for Social Services.